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SALT LAKE CITY – (Dec. 20, 2013) Governor Gary R. Herbert has named LuAnn Adams as commissioner of the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food. Adams has served as Box Elder County Commissioner since 2011. She also worked 16 years as the Box Elder County Recorder/Clerk.

"LuAnn brings the right mix of understanding of the agriculture industry and critical leaderships skills" said Governor Herbert. "Throughout the process, I heard from numerous stakeholders that she is the right kind of hands-on leader we need."

"I am honored and humbled to have been chosen as the Commissioner of Agriculture and appreciate Governor Herbert's vote of confidence," said Adams. "I am excited about the opportunity to help agriculture shine as a key asset for our state. I have a deep respect for Commissioner Blackham and hope to continue and further many of his projects."

As Box Elder County Commissioner, Adams oversaw a $30 million budget. She implemented a Business Resource Center at Utah State University, as well as the Business Extension and Retention Program to manage and grow local business. By collaborating with various stakeholders, she helped resolve Bureau of Land Management grazing issues. As Recorder, Adams designed Box Elder County's online Property Information System and headed up the Geographic Information Systems and RS2477 roads.

Adams chaired the West Box Elder County Coordinated Resource Management Plan with responsible use and conservation of natural resources. Additionally, she was heavily involved with the Boys and Girls Club, Brigham City Community Hospital Board of Trustees, the State Sage Grouse Committee and initiated a $2.5 million improvement plan for the Box Elder County Fair Grounds.

With her husband and sons, Adams operates a dry farm and cattle ranch in Promontory, Utah.

Adams will take over for retiring commissioner Leonard Blackham pending confirmation by the Utah State Senate.

Kyle Stephens will continue to serve as deputy commissioner.

"I appreciate Kyle's willingness to continue his service as deputy commissioner," said Gov. Herbert. "His experience and knowledge are invaluable to the success within the department."

About the Utah Department of Agriculture & FoodCreated in 1921, the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is one of the State's oldest agencies. The Department's eight divisions and 200 employees oversee dozens of legislatively mandated programs that promote the healthy growth of agriculture, the conservation of our natural resources and the protection of our food supply. Major programs managed by the Department include the Utah Grazing Improvement Program, the Invasive Weeds Mitigation Program, and Utah's Own Program. The Department also protects animal health and the state's $1 billion livestock industry, as well as guards against invasive insects.